Over the past few years the Westville Boys High School
Performing Arts Department, under the leadership of Luke Holder the Director of
Cultural Activities at the institution, has raised the bar pretty high when it
comes to the overall standard of student productions.
The good news is that with their latest offering, A Few Good Men which finishes its run tonight, they clear that bar
comfortably with a production of quite extraordinary quality.
A Few Good Men was
written by Aaron Sorkin and first produced on Broadway in 1989. It is, however,
possibly best remembered as the 1992 film starring Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson
and Demi Moore. It tells the story of military lawyers at a court-martial who
uncover a high-level conspiracy in the course of defending their clients: two United
States Marines who are accused of murdering one of their brethren while
stationed at Guantanamo Bay in Cuba.
WBHS’ rendering of this enthralling courtroom drama is
intense, riveting and dynamic. It positively sizzles on stage, while the
synergy it generates is palpable. The skill displayed in all aspects of the
production belies the fact that it is, in fact, a school production.
Before seeing the play, I thought that I would not single
any individuals as school productions are always such combined and concerted
efforts on behalf of everyone involved. However, the performances given by the
three lead actors were of such a high standard that it would be remiss of me
not to comment on them.
Murray Clark plays Lt J G Daniel Kaffee, the military lawyer
assigned the job of defending the accused. Kafee does not take his
responsibilities too seriously but as the story unfolds he becomes a perceptive
strategist determined to see justice done. Clark’s development of the character
is convincing and impressive.
Christine Behrmann creates a strong, passionate and
determined character for Lt. Cmdr. Joanne Galloway. As the only female cast
member she produces a dignified and intense performance.
Just about stealing the show is Pierre Parrott as the
arrogant and bombastic Lt Col Nathan Jessep. It is a plumb role, full of rage
and bluster. Parrott makes the most of it in a dramatic and noteworthy
performance. If this young man chooses to make a career out of the performing
arts, he could have a big future.
All the other performers in the 31-strong cast give their
all. One can only imagine the hours of rehearsal and preparation everyone must
have put in. They should all be justifiably proud of their achievements.
It is difficult to find fault in this production. The
costumes are were beautifully authentic and showed excellent attention to
detail. The rather austere set is innovative and effective, while the sound and
lighting and excellent scene setting audio visual images all play their part in
the success of the production.
The use of cadence, the sing/chant used by the marines to
instil spirit and teamwork, between the scenes was particularly impressive and
played a huge role in setting the ambiance of the piece. The sustained standing
ovation received from the audience was richly deserved for what is another
triumph for the school.
My last words are reserved for the director and designer of
this production, the inimitable Luke Holder. Westville Boys High School has an
absolute gem in this staff member. Long may he produce work of this calibre. –
Keith Millar
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